United Airlines failed to fully...

INCOMPLETE INSPECTION.

April 28, 1989

SEATTLE — INCOMPLETE INSPECTION. United Airlines failed to fully inspect a cargo door that later blew off a Boeing 747, causing the deaths of nine passengers, according to testimony Thursday at a federal hearing. A United executive said mechanics made a partial inspection after repairs in late December, two months before the disaster. The company testified it was unaware it was under regulations to do a full inspection. ''I am convinced the check . . . verified that the door was working,'' said Robert Doll, United vice president for technical services. He admitted the inspection was not as thorough as the Federal Aviation Administration required.